The first day of the Cider & Cheese Festival brings a broad drinks list and local produce to Isle of Wight Steam Railway. More than 30 ciders are advertised, alongside cheeses that can be bought individually or as platters with pickles and crackers. Ric Harris and Big Al provide Saturday’s live music, giving the station a soundtrack while visitors browse, eat and choose a pint.
Festival bars run from 11am to 5pm on Saturday 12 September, with the band scheduled from 1pm to 4pm. Entry to the festival and Havenstreet station is free. Train travel is separate and charged at the railway’s normal operating-day fares; special return tickets are also advertised from Wootton and Smallbrook. Anyone planning to drink should arrange a driver or check public transport rather than relying on the last train.
This is a food and drink event with a railway around it, not a ticketed tasting where every sample is included. Budget for purchases from the bars and cheese stalls, and bring proof of age if required. The station opens at 9.30am on running days, but festival service begins later. Dogs, accessibility and train times should be checked on the railway website, especially if the visit includes more than the free station programme.